*Blogger was compensated to write this blog post. 
My son is heading off to soccer camp tomorrow, and I’m sure he’s as excited as I am to have a break from school! While I love sending him each year, there are always summer camp concerns I have as a mom. Will he drink enough? Will they give them enough breaks? It gives me peace of mind when I know he’s had a physical before camp. Also called pre-participation physicals, camp physicals are a great way to make sure a camper can safely participate in activities. Some camps require a physical, but even if it’s not required, it’s a great way to stay on top of your camper’s health with MinuteClinic.
At CVS MinuteClinics, their nurse practitioners and physician assistants are ready to:
- Review health history and immunizations
- Perform a thorough physical exam
- Complete and stamp required paperwork
Especially at camp, the summer is full of outdoor activities, and that’s why we love it! Outdoor recreational activities support a healthy lifestyle, so get out there and play – but in case any mishaps come along, MinuteClinic is there when you need them. Here are some helpful tips for common summer ailments:
Poison Ivy & Oak
You know what they say – leaves of three, let it be. MinuteClinic nurse practitioners and physician assistants are there to recommend the correct over-the-counter treatments and to write prescriptions when medically necessary!
- Spotting Poison Ivy: Poison ivy has three pointed leaves that can grow as a bush or a vine. These leaves change color with the seasons:
*Reddish in the spring
*Green in the summer
*Yellow, orange or red in the fall
- Spotting Poison Oak: Poison oak has three leaves shaped in lobes resembling those of an oak tree. Poison oak grows in low shrubs as long vines.
- Preventative Measures:
-Cover up with closed shoes, socks, long pants, long sleeves, and gloves.
-Wash any clothes that come in contact with poisonous plants as soon as possible.
-If you are exposed, wash your skin with soap and water, or rubbing alcohol immediately. Though the timeframe varies, a rash usually begins to develop after 10 minutes.
-Scrub under your nails. Poison ivy and oak oil can be spread to other areas of the body if oil is beneath the nail.
-If there is a chance your pet has been exposed, give them a thorough bath. Wear rubber gloves while bathing your pets. -
Routinely wash sports equipment, gardening tools, and other outdoor items with soap and water. Oil from poison ivy and other poisonous plants can remain potent for as long as 5 years.
SUMMER CAMP TIPS
It’s also a tough time to be away from my kiddo for several days at a time. While it’s stressful, there are ways I feel I can prepare him for camp. These tips are great for any kiddos heading to camp this summer!
Stay in Touch
Ask if the camp offers ways to connect with your camper, such as email or by phone. You may also want to ask about wireless access if your child has a mobile device. Additionally, give them an easy way to reach you. Try self-addressed, stamped postcards that are ready to go whenever they want to write home.
Talk to Your Child
Let your children know that it’s okay to be worried, a little nervous, or to miss home at first. Be encouraging and remind them that this will be an adventure and home will be there when they return.
Pack Something Familiar
If they’re ever feeling homesick, a trinket from home can be comforting – whether it’s a photo, blanket, stuffed animal or their favorite toy.
Have Them Log Their Trip
Encourage your children to preserve camp memories. Disposable cameras and journals are great mediums for them to share their experiences with friends and family, and to relive their adventure.
Although I hate to see my son go each year, I know he is creating wonderful memories. I also want him to be safe, and that’s why I appreciate all the services that MinuteClinic has to offer!
*Insurance is not accepted for physicals and payment is due at time of visit. Additional lab charges may apply.
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